Hi !

Searched quite a bit about the topic in the chat forums first but could not seem to find a direct answer, hence I post.

2004 XJR with Bi Xenon Headlights- the main projector like bulb on driver side has been flickering for a while and went out yesterday ( interesting there is no dash board announcement it is out, will I have to manually check all bulbs from time to time?)

What is the best course of action ?

Parts and Supplier

Do I have to replace the entire unit, dealer only at pricing near $1300 or so? ( don't think I do) If part only, which is the most likely or only one to replace and who is the best source- OEM or after market ( and which supplier is the favorite of the board?)

Part in hand who should complete the job?

The Wrench Options

1. Myself, having common sense, quick learner,solid tinkering ability, and good base level wrench skills

2. My long time excellent/competent mechanic on a wide variety of vehicles but not necessarily a Jag expert ( yet )

3. 10+ year current dealership working Jag service tech, working from his nice home garage

4. The dealership ( last choice of course but willing to do when imperative or forced to )

 

I had a similar experience with my xenon lights flickering on/off. Purchased the replacement HID's (Sylvania D1S) from Advance Auto (about $30 less per bulb than the dealer) and did the job myself, using guidance from this forum. Chose the "replace from the top" method versus pulling the bumper off. No issues in doing it...just followed the steps provided. I don't recall the exact thread, but I believe it was in this section of the forum. Do be careful with the clips and the plastic cover when you pull it off so you don't crack the molding. It's a tight fit and some patience is required. You will probably have to move some wires to get at the cover especially the passenger side. Be careful not to overtighten the nut when putting it back together (finger tight will do).
Fyi...I did not get any warning message either.

 

Check my old post on this topic: https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...-xenons-78298/

 

Ironically the HID worked last night and did not even flicker every once in a while, which a first.
I will order the parts and be ready. Thanks for input.

 

Remember, it can be the ballast or the bulb. In order to determine which, swapping the bulb with the other side is the easiest to do. The ballast is mounted on the underside of the lamp itself. I have been forced to replace both ballasts due to flickering. I have a thread on here somewhere that i authored if interested.

 

Hey I was wondering how do you determine if its the ballast or the bulb?
My driver side HID bulb has been flickering and goes off for 5-10 seconds while driving then comes back on, other times it just stays off. Other side seems to be fine. Does this point to bulb or ballast do you think?